Chiefs Optimistic as Xavier Worthy Returns to Practice Ahead of Eagles Showdown
After a tumultuous start to the season, the Kansas City Chiefs received a much-needed boost with the return of rookie Xavier Worthy to practice. The young wide receiver’s season took a painful turn just three snaps into the opener against the Los Angeles Chargers when he collided with teammate Travis Kelce, resulting in a dislocated shoulder. That injury sidelined him for the remainder of the game, contributing to the Chiefs’ disappointing loss.
Recovery Progress
Worthy’s absence was felt significantly during the Chiefs’ Week 1 game. As they prepared for their Week 2 matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles—a rematch of last season’s Super Bowl—the team was eager for positive news. Although he did not practice on Wednesday, optimism grew when Chiefs reporter Matt McMullen shared that Worthy would take the field “in some capacity” on Thursday.
The official injury report later that day would reveal the extent of his participation, but the mere fact that Worthy was back on the practice field was a promising sign. The Chiefs had initially crafted a game plan centered around Worthy’s speed and playmaking ability, only to have it dismantled almost instantly due to his injury.
Navigating Game Plans
As the Chiefs look ahead to their upcoming clash with the Eagles, they will likely adopt a more cautious approach to integrating Worthy into the game plan. However, even if he isn’t fully ready for action by game day, his participation in practice indicates that a return may be imminent.
In Worthy’s absence during Week 1, veteran receivers stepped up; Hollywood Brown recorded 10 receptions, while JuJu Smith-Schuster added five catches. Yet, the Chiefs’ offensive strategists, including quarterback Patrick Mahomes and head coach Andy Reid, would undoubtedly prefer to have Worthy on the field, even if just as a decoy to stretch defenses.
A Close Call for Week 2
As the clock ticks down to the showdown against the Eagles, the situation regarding Worthy’s health remains uncertain. The Chiefs are hopeful that their dynamic rookie will be ready to contribute, even if in a limited capacity. Given the stakes of a Super Bowl rematch, every play counts. With Worthy’s return to practice, the Chiefs can at least breathe a sigh of relief, knowing they may soon have one of their fastest weapons back in the fold.
